Mike McMahon -- Self-Hating Democrat?



In 2008 Mike had a simple platform: "Come On Democrats!"
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

In 2008, when he was running for Congress, Mike McMahon had a simple platform: "Come On Democrats! We can win this!" Elected during the Obama landslide, Mike had courted the progressive vote during his campaign. He later described himself as a "centrist" -- while courting the Conservative Party. In 2010, facing re-election, Mike began describing himself as "an independent."


Mike is worried about the well being of his constituents and won't waste their tax money on health care.
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

Mike McMahon voted against health care reform and steadfastly opposed a public option. He refused to even discuss a single payer system. Critics charged that he was serving the interests of the insurance companies. Mike says, "No way - come on Democrats!"


Mike is worried about stability
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

Mike McMahon voted to continue the bloody stalemate in Afghanistan. The presence of U.S. troops helps the Taliban recruit but Mike feels removing the troops would make the region "unstable." Although he never served in the military, Mike likes to honor veterans every chance he gets. Mike loves veterans which is why he wants to keep them in a war zone indefinitely.


Mike is concerned for women's rights
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

Mike is concerned about women's rights in Afghanistan which is why he supports the ongoing war. The fact that women are raped and killed in war zones is upsetting but continuing the war means that those women who survive will have some rights. If they aren't bombed by accident. Mike hasn't stated his position on the bombing of civilians but it seems safe to assume that he would regard bombing wedding parties as unfortunate.


Mike supports Israel, right or wrong
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

Mike is a patriot who loves his country, freedom and the democratic tradition of Free Speech -- which is why he recently called peace activists who oppose Israel's blockade of Gaza "supporters of Hamas." Although Mike is known for his eloquence and "bipartisan" approach -- Mike is proud to be a "centrist" -- he is also passionate about his love of country. Which is why he supports Israel, right or wrong.


Mike McMahon -- Self-Hating Democrat?
(Photo: Thomas Good / NLN)

Mike represents a conservative district. But he is resolute, courageous and flexible. He appealed to progressives during his 2008 campaign. Once elected, he became a "bipartisan" centrist who wooed the Conservative Party. Critics might call this opportunism and label Mike a "boll weevil," a "blue-dog," or perhaps even a "self-hating Democrat." But never fear, Mike is no self-hating Democrat and he hasn't abandoned his base. He's an independent! Sure, he hasn't had much to say to progressives of late but he won't forget us. It's election time. "Come On, Democrats! We can win this!"